We are proud to announce that Lauren Rose, an aquatic and environmental science teacher at Easton High School, has been awarded the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators. She is one of nine educators nationwide to receive the award.

Bill Keswick, TCPS Science Science Supervisor, STEM Coordinator, and Environmental Literacy Coordinator, stated “Ms. Rose, is an outstanding teacher at EHS, and a huge proponent of practical experiences for her students. By embedding field experiences into her lessons, Ms. Rose activates a sense of activism in her students. Connecting her students with local scientists for joint work on conservation efforts and environmental issues in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem provides the students the opportunity to act on this feeling of activism in a meaningful way. It is exciting to see her recognized on a national level.”

The 1990 National Environmental Education Act established the PIAEE award and seeks to recognize, support, and bring public attention to the outstanding environmental projects performed by teachers who go beyond textbook instruction to incorporate methods and materials that utilize creative experiences and enrich student learning in K-12 education. CEQ, in partnership with EPA, administers this award.

From across the country, 13 educators and 41 students are recognized for their leadership and commitment to environmental education and stewardship. This year, nine educators received the 2023 PIAEE, and four educators were recognized with an honorable mention distinction. Winning educators demonstrated leadership by integrating environmental education into multiple subjects and using topics such as climate change, environmental justice, water infrastructure, healthy school environments, environmentally friendly agriculture practices, recycling, and reducing contributions to ocean and marine litter.

“We are thrilled to honor the crucial work that students and teachers are doing in every corner of our nation,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Our awardees represent bold and dedicated leaders who are ready to tackle the biggest climate challenges, and we are so grateful for their commitment to environmental education. Congratulations to all the award winners – we can’t wait to see what you do next.”

“Environmental stewardship begins in the classroom through the passion and creativity of educators and young leaders who are dedicated to achieving a healthy, prosperous, and more equitable future,” said White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory. “From climate change to environmental injustice, this year’s award winners are tackling our planet’s most pressing environmental challenges.”